… that is, English by name - not so much by nature. In fact, Laura Murray and James English’s stunning Spring wedding here at The Normans was an international affair, drawing guests from across the country, and, indeed, from across the Atlantic (James’s family heralds from Canada, you see).
Guests convened on a lovely April’s day to celebrate the marriage of an even lovelier couple - one half of which is pictured here, seeing herself in her Rembo Styling gown for the very first time.
“It was more beautiful than I could have imagined,” says London-based Laura. “I Googled Rembo Styling stockists and found that Lace & Co Bridal in Wakefield was one of the biggest in the UK - so my dress-shopping experience moved Up North!”
Once the pre-wedding emotions had subsided, Laura - ceremony-ready - greeted her adoring masses (The Normans staff and a passing cyclist) from her bedroom window. Bravo to Julia Jeckell (hair) and Hannah Edwards (make-up) for Laura’s look.
But it takes two to tango. And, indeed, to get married. So let’s turn our attention to groom James, seen here with is groomsmen, hanging out in front of a random blossom tree. Because that’s what you do on your wedding day.
James looked fantastic in his blue three-piece suit, which he designed via online tailor Suit Supply. (Gents: if you haven’t checked the website out, do so now.) He finished off his look with a deep green Aiden tie from Reiss.
With groom in place, it was time for Laura to make her entrance in The Normans Ceremony Barn. Here she is walking down an aisle lined with candles floating in tall vases, clutching a bouquet of whites and greens by Kate Mell.
The ceremony was sealed with a kiss…
… which signified the beginning of the drinks reception out in The Normans Courtyard.
The Hog & Apple were waiting, armed with canapes - check out these to-die-for arancini balls.
“We hope that one day we wake up and Hog & Apple are on Deliveroo in London,” jokes Laura. “The variety of food was incredible and made it hard to choose [our menu]!”
As guests ate, drank and made merry, Laura, James and their entourage of groomsmen and bridesmaids explored the hidden corners of The Normans.
From scenic barn doors…
… to rolling fields …
… to the farm buildings across the road.
They even found time to shoot the cover for their new album…
… and make an otherwise nondescript shed look absolutely awesome. Credit to fantastic photographer Will Patrick, who had the vision to capture this shot. We love it!
From one shed to another … our new-look Grain Shed looked glorious lined with our custom-made long rustic banqueting tables.
Florist Kate Mell was at it again, lining the tables with simple white runners and eucalyptus.
“We used two of our engagement photos by Will. We coupled these with wooden signs from Not on the High Street, which we thought were simple but effective,” says Laura.
While guests were seated, James and Laura took a moment in the Courtyard together…
… before making their entrance beneath a ceiling full of copper, silver and green balloons (the colour-scheme of the day) by The Little Balloon Company.
The wedding breakfast, courtesy of The Hog & Apple, featured a sharing-platter starter with pulled-pork nachos, tempura prawns, and jackfruit nachos for veggies. Mains included lip-smacking options including smoked beef brisket and halloumi pepper kebabs, but it was the cheesecake dessert that lingered longest on Laura’s memory.
Speeches (and suitable embarrassment for bride and groom) followed thereafter…
… and then drinks. All the drinks.
And, of course, assorted dance floor-orientated revelries.
“We honestly couldn’t have asked for anything more - from the venue, The Norman’s team, the Cottage... or for our day. An absolutely stunning venue in its own right, and a team like no other. No email or call was too much in planning, and no visit was turned down. Every request was accommodated without hesitation.”
